Not as a reward, but as a quick and easy thank you. Everyone loves stickers.

8) Write Them a Personal Note

Stick it in their desk or backpack. Better yet, if you are really proud of their work in a certain subject, tell them. Slip it into the next lesson of their textbook so they can have the pleasant surprise all to their own.

7) Tell the Parents

Trickle-down thankanomics?

6) Display Their Work

Place their art work or strong assignment in a prominent place by your desk. Perhaps, on the wall for a few weeks or in a frame right on your desk.

5) Down Time

Encourage them when they are down. Be specific and tell them how much you appreciate them. This one can get emotional, especially if they are really down about something. The more personal feedback the better.

4) Have Lunch with Them

Make it a point to sit with them at a lunch hour, and have a conversation with them. Try not to focus on school. Focus on their life outside of school.

3) Sticky Note Smile

Walk by their desk and put a sticky note on top of their desk while they are working. It is unexpected and it is personal. That is a rare combination in a classroom. And seriously, does that take all of 30 seconds?

2) Extra-Curricular Support

Show up to one of their events outside of school. The ideas are endless. Their basketball game, soccer match, football game, dance competition, singing recital, and gymnastics event are all examples in which you can show you really care and appreciate them.

1) Hug it Out

If you don’t like a hug, then you need a hug. This is especially important for male teachers who have male students who really look up to them. They crave that affirmation. They need to see that male example of care and kindness. Remember, many of them may not receive any male affirmation outside of school. The lack of a father in the life of a boy has reached an epidemic in this country.